Gardener - Bexleyheath

Summary

***INTERNAL APPLICANTS ONLY PLEASE***

This is a fixed term contract due to end when the previous employee returns from maternity leave.  At this point we cannot confirm exactly how long this contract will last, but it is unlikely to be more than 10 months.

As the sole gardener at Red House, you’ll be responsible for the day-to-day garden maintenance as well as ensuring high standards of horticulture. You’ll also play a vital role in improving the experience of visitors to the garden and ensuring we continue to celebrate Morris’ passion for beauty, making and collaboration.  You will be part of a rota covering Saturday opening in the season. There is also opportunity to join the key holding rota for additional on call payments. 
The advertised salary is inclusive of the Outer London Weighting allowance of £3,315 per annum

What it's like to work here

Red House is the iconic home of William and Jane Morris and the centre of the Pre-Raphaelite circle. The garden design was as important to Morris as the house, and he believed they should work together in harmony. 
Open 3 days a week, March – October, this is a special place for lovers of Arts and Crafts, but also for our local community. 
Reporting to the House & Garden Manager, you’ll lead a group of dedicated garden volunteers. You'll work alongside your colleagues looking after the house and the visitor experience as part of a small and tight knit team. 
Read more about the garden here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/london/red-house/the-history-of-the-garden-at-red-house

What you'll be doing

You'll be keeping the garden in tiptop condition every day. This would involve routine tasks such as weeding, pruning and mulching, and using machinery such as hedge cutters, leaf blowers and lawnmowers. 
Other duties might include propagation, tree safety work and seasonal planting. You'll also be involved in recycling and managing waste, as well as garden related risk management and compliance.

Who we're looking for

We'd love to hear from you if you’re: 

• an enthusiastic horticulturist and hands-on gardener with strong plant knowledge

• confident working on your own or your and also leading volunteers 

• experienced with machinery, including chainsaws, rotary and cylinder mowers, and with some knowledge of maintenance 

• able to manage a demanding outdoor role  

• good at talking to, and getting on with, all kinds of people 

• able to keep to time, plan and meet deadlines 

The package

The National Trust has the motto ‘For everyone, for ever’ at its heart. We’re working hard to create an inclusive culture, where everyone feels they belong. It’s important that our people reflect and represent the diversity of the communities and audiences we serve. We welcome and value difference, so when we say we’re for everyone, we want everyone to be welcome in our teams too.

• Substantial pension scheme of up to 10% basic salary

• Free entry to National Trust places for you, a guest and your children (under 18)

• Rental deposit loan scheme

• Season ticket loan

• EV car lease scheme 

• Perks at work discounts such as gym memberships, shopping discount codes, cinema discounts

• Holiday allowance up to 32 days relating to length of service, plus holiday purchase scheme, subject to meeting minimum criteria.

• Flexible working whenever possible

• Employee assistance programme

• Free parking at most Trust places

Click here to find out more about the benefits we offer to support you.